Anmol Jodi (Epilogue in pg 43 updated) - Page 8

Ambika got taken in by sweet words. Her husband wants her to get educated which is good for her. She just didn't see it that way.

Ambika would have been ruined if Bondita did not help her and speak on her behalf.

Sumati is under the impression that Kalindi is kind. She doesn't know her reality.

People do have a point. Even Anirudh has a child bride.

They are at crossroads. An annulment makes sense for now.

What is Kalindi up to? She has some sinister plan.

Originally posted by: coderlady

If Amrita doesn't want to study, why not let her get the basic literacy and leave her at that?

.

Part 15 : Kalindi made Sumati against Anirudh

When Kalindi introduced herself as Bonditha’s father Peshi

Anirudh started : “So you have come back to krishnanagar after 14 years, am I correct?”

Kalindi: yes,

A: which piligrimages have you visited.

K: we have stayed in kashi, haridwar, prayaga and covered all the piligrimages. Later my grandson earned a job in British officer company, he left me in gaya and went to Britain. Shomik has met me in gaya only.

A: Till then, how did you make your living

K: we have lands in Durgapur, so we sold it and settled in pilgrimages.

A: As per krishnanagar panchayat verdict, your punishment to leave away from village is completed 3-4 years ago only. Then why didn’t you come back.

K: I felt more peaceful in pilgrimages, so I spent my time in doing penance.

A: The one who spent most of the time in penance will be more peaceful, try to find positivity in other’s words. But you are trying to find faults in me. Ok, leave it. How long back did you come here.

K: I came 2 hours before, I listened to all your talks

A: oh, you are listening to our talks secretly. Why , you could have come in our house and listened. But no, you came at a particular time where Sumati ma is offended by my decision and instigating her against us.

K: Have you observed this Sumati, what this zamindar is trying to prove? Am I instigating you. Yes, I have stayed silently behind the mob because it is your family matter, till sometime before my Yogendra daughter is your wife and I am just a relative. So I didn’t involve, but you have insulted my Yogendra daughter in mob by cutting off ties with her. So being an elder relative of her father’s side, isn’t it my responsibility to interfere. You are blaming me that as if I am a culprit. Sumati, bring our Bonditha. We shall leave to our krishnanagar now. Without having relationship, why should our girl stay here. Let us leave now with Bonditha.

These zamindar, whenever they want they will tie with relationships, when they don’t want they will leave in middle. Many years ago, it was happened with me by kailashnath RC, grandfather of ARC. Even now grandson is also walking in his grandfather’s footsteps, by pretending as if he is doing favor for our Bonditha.”

Bonditha told Anirudh “I don't want to go to Krishnanagar by stopping my studies. She is instigating my mother against you”

Anirudh realized the entire fact. Before he is about to say something, Kalindi did her emotional drama, spoke with Bonditha: “Look at me Bonditha, you are thinking wrong about me. I came from piligrimages after 14 years. Your Shomik kaka had seen me few months ago in Gaya and brought here. My health is spoiled completely after my son’s demise. My grandson Chandrachur is struggling for my medical expenses, working hard for his self respect . I came back to your kaka to revive old relationships, I was completely shattered listening about Yogendra and Tupur death and want to be helpful to your kaka, kaki and Maa. But here you are blaming me by the influence of your pati...no no by the influence of this zamindar ARC. Try to understand who are your well wishers and who are backstabbers. This ARC has backstabbed you, spoiled your future at an important phase in your life.

He actually didn’t want to marry you, he only saved you from sati ritual , as requested by your mother.” Bonditha is shocked, looked at Anirudh who is worried by the truth coming up at unexpected time. She saw at her mother, who nodded as it is fact. Sumati told “He may have married you due to my request, but didn’t want you in his life. It is my mistake to give your responsibility to him. Come Bonditha let us leave now.”

Anirudh folded hands in front of Sumati “ Please don’t say these harsh words, never I have considered her as burden in my life. She is the reason for my survival. She is a raw soil, who should study and make her future. ( with low voice) How can you expect me to start family life with her.”

Sumati “Anirudh Babu, if that is the case, you will have the problem with her at any age. I understood that you want to get rid of her burden. So I am fulfilling your wish. You can live your life happily.”

Bonditha came and asked is it true that you married me only because of my mother’s request. He told “I have married you at that time only to save you from burning alive. But now I am annulling this marriage not to get rid of your responsibility, I will always be there to take up your responsibility throughout my life, you are more precious to me, not at all a burden”.(he told looking at Sumati and Kalindi)

Sumati: Enough jamayi..no no Anirudh Babu, you broke all the ties with her. You need not worry about my daughter now. I am still alive. I will take care. Bonditha stood beside Anirudh holding his hand.

Sumati went to Bondita and told "It is my order Bondita ! will you come with me or not"

Bondita initially refused, but when Sumati gave her promise then she silently came with sumati and kept on looking at Anirudh with tears.

Sampoorna pleaded sumati not to take Bondita away, elders will talk and he will take back his decision. Somnath also requested sumati, for which kalindi replied : " why you both are worried when main person is standing silently. Our girl will come with him if he takes back his decision and accept for all rituals. If he still stand on this marriage annulment, then our girl will not stay with an outsider. People will call with dirty names if a girl stays with a boy without any relationship. I think I need not mention those names."

Anirudh stopped them and told that I have kept silent that doesn't mean either I am wrong in my decision or I will accept your words. I will definitely come to Krishnanagar with all my arrangements. Till then Bondita will be with you.

He spoke with Bonditha by bending near her " Bondita! I promise you that I will comeback. Our relationship is more pious than all these rituals and superstitious customs in this world. You will study and make your own destiny. No one can stop you & I will not allow them. Till then be alert don’t trust any outsiders, always remember the self defence techniques that I taught you (kalindi gave a frowned look)" and he handed over pepper powder packet secretly. She is leaving reluctantly with tears 😭 and Anirudh has also tears in his eyes.

While leaving from main door, some nail has hit her foot and she screamed " Patibabu". He is worried for her, quickly came and about to attend her wound. But kalindi has thrown his hand. Sumati also told that now you have lost this right . She is about to tear her saree and tie it, Somnath came and gave her band-aid, told that he is a doctor and not to ignore her pain irrespective of these circumstances. Sumati reluctantly took it and done the aid. They all left.

Somnath taunted Anirudh that get habituated to see her pain just as an outsider, as you gave up everything for silly reasons. Sampoorna also told with tears that you have always considered her opinions, desires as top priority, but why didn't you observe the pain and love in her eyes today. Because of age gap, will you leave her. How can you underestimate my sister that she will choose other person as her life partner." She left with tears.

Binoy also lashed at Anirudh “you always do whatever you want, you don’t care about elders, RC family prestige in society. Don’t you know that divorce is taken in foreign countries, not in our country,”

but Catherine came after sometime when he is alone appreciated that his intention is genuine, but circumstances will be completely against him. She offered to help him in any situation, also mentioned that she has very good contacts in Calcutta law college as well as in London also. He is in thoughts.

Trilochan didn't come out of room, when Anirudh requested him to open door, he didn't consider telling that "you are habituated to go against elders, you can do whatever you want. Leave me alone."

That night, Anirudh and Bonditha are in deep sorrow and remembering each other. She removed her Suhagan ornaments and turned into simple unmarried girl. Sumati is weeping and bursted that “I didn’t expect that this day will come in my Bonditha’s life. What did that ARC done to my Bonditha.”

At her back, Kalindi is trying to brainwash Bonditha that Anirudh left her at critical age and Phase in life. Tapur came and applying Lep to Bonditha’s leg. Shomik, Rimjhim and Sumati are there listening to Kalindi.

Bonditha recollected tremble in Anirudh’s voice that the ritual they have planned is absolutely wrong, which should not be done by any girl at this age. Also recollected that he wants to file a petition to reconsider girl’s age for marriage. She understood that there is something in this ritual which he is unable to explain properly, or he is scared to explain her. So she felt that she should not come into other’s words and expressed her belief towards Anirudh and told Kalindi the same that “ Her husband is her god, teacher and friend. If he decided to break ties, that means there is a big reason in this. You all only listened to his words, but I listened his unspoken words, saw pain in his eyes, tremble in his voice, I am sure he certainly will not do any wrong to me.” Sumati asked her to come into reality. But Bonditha left silently from there.

2 days later, Trilochan went to farms, making labour to pack fruits. Anirudh came and about to talk. But Trilochan bursted "you never understood my love. Whatever I do is for your welfare. You can only understand my state when your children turns against you."

Anirudh: kaka, did you ever eat fruits when it is raw

Trilochan: no, eating raw fruits is not good for health

Anirudh: then how could you expect an underage girl to start a married life. How could you expect me to start a married life with Bonditha?

Tri: I don't want to argue with you, but at the same time also remember one more thing - Do you really think Bondita will leave you, and chose other person in her life. She loves you to the core.

Ani: That should be expressed by her when the right age comes. Not now.

Tri: Till then, this society will not let her to live happily. She will be called as chodi hui aurat. They will try to blacken her face, character. She can't even take a breath.

Ani: Do you think I will let it happen. Never. I have already done my arrangements. I will convince sumati maa for her secondary education. Today only I am leaving to Krishnanagar.

Tri: Before you leave, I should also tell you about the previous enemity between Tulsipur and Krishnanagar and who is kalindi. He told about the entire circumstances that she is rejected by his father Kailashnath RC when she refused to treat lower caste people, her brother (Bondita's grandfather) is too aggressive in that riots he killed my grandfather and her brother is also killed by our people. For many years 2 villages fought against each other. Only because of your Guruji Surender chatterjee and Bonditha’s father yogendra initiative, the enemity is reduced. Don’t do any such thing that it turns into a big problem.

Anirudh nodded and spoke with reformers, Indrani teacher and all left to krishnanagar.

In krishnanagar, they first met village head, also took him with them and left to Kalindi house. Bonditha is completely devastated, sat silently. Kalindi is brainwashing Sumati that zamindars are not to be believed, they won’t keep their promise. Anirudh made an entry with all the people into Kalindi house and told that “You are absolutely wrong. I will always keep my promise.” Bonditha is delighted to see him , went to him and embraced him with joy. He happily placed his hand on her head. Sumati asked her to leave him and follow manners infront of outsiders. She left him reluctantly and later wished her teacher Indrani. Kalindi is worried to see village head, who is a relative of her husband’s side. Village head Devnath took her blessings and introduced social reformers and Indrani.

Later they all gathered in hall and all explained Sumati that it is for Bonditha’s welfare only. She need to study and make her future. Kalindi and Sumati gave their version that she is abandoned by her husband, if she is in RC house, whatever decision is taken by Anirudh is acceptable but not after breaking their relationship. Girls education will not be allowed by society,..all.

Devnath told that "After you left Krishnanagar, there are lot of changes taken here. Brahmo Samaj people are influencing society that girls should be educated for a better life and my daughter is also pursuing secondary education in her sasural with her husband's support. Now a days groom want bride to get educated. Today it may be a fashion or rebellious , but situations are turning like it will become prime necessity tomorrow"

Indrani stood up and explained “ whatever you think it as fault today, will be correct tomorrow. Education is important for everyone. Educated girls will run their house most efficiently than illiterate house wives. Sumati ji, please remember your life when your husband passed away. Bondita can lead a better life than you in any circumstances. I will take her with me and she will be in my protection. I assure you her safety. Also there are girls hostel in Kolkata. She can also stay there. Please don't stop Bondita and permit her to move ahead in life."

After a lot of heated arguments, finally sumati agreed for bondita's secondary education in Kolkata and also permitted to stay with Indrani or any girl's hostel on condition that Anirudh will not meet her, she should come to Krishnanagar whenever holidays are given.

But Rimjhim raised her objection about expenses in Kolkata city. Anirudh told that he will bear it, but kalindi immediately interrupted and told that being an outsider how will you bear her expenses. She offered that she can bear her expenses in city. Bondita told that she will not take money from anyone either from barrister Babu (she pronounced it straight lay and Anirudh is dejected that Bonditha is moving away from him) or from Thakuma. She told that she will earn her expenses by giving tutions or work in Vishala tailor shop and study. Anirudh is moved by her words. She told with eyes not to raise objection. He kept quiet desparately.

Indrani offered that she will take Bondita with her on that day itself. Sumati agreed, Bondita is packing things to leave. She asked Bonditha infront of Anirudh to swear that she will not meet Anirudh in city for which Bondita agreed.

Anirudh is leaving desparately and suddenly he found a paper thrown on him from top, mentioning that “ Birristera Babu, he can write letters than meeting her and he can look at her” for which he felt happy. They used their key to maintain this as lock and key secret.🤐🤫

Indrani gave her address, asked Tapur also to continue her studies. Finally Bondita came to Kolkata gave her interview in secondary school, got admitted. They offered her scholarship due to her merit in x std, and she is happy for it. Suddenly she found Anirudh shadow besides her. She wrote letter and thrown to him that her admission is confirmed.

He has thrown mentioning 'Bravo Bondita and asked about fees. He is ready to pay it. Insisted not to refuse it " she told that she has saved the pocket money he gave her last year and that will be sufficient for this term. He asked her to wait there, told kulfi selling person to go and give her, he thrown a paper and told not to reject this kulfi and don’t offer money in return. She told that her condition is he should also eat with her, he agreed. They cried happily and ate kulfis.

She went to Indrani house, informed about her admission, for which latter is happy. In krishnanagar, Kalindi furiously asked Sumati “Why are you allowing your daughter for this craziness towards education?”

Sumati answered “ARC has left her, if she is educated at least she may get good alliances in future, also mukhiyaji (Devnath) told that now a days grooms are willing to marry educated girls. Hence I have to accept it. I will send Shomik devar ji to have a continuous check on her. If I find anything fishy I will get her back.”

Kalindi is worried how to convince Sumati for Bonditha’s marriage with Chandrachur. She later met Chandrachur who is staying separately in krishnanagar and told everything. He rebuked on his Thakuma for letting Bonditha to move to city for higher studies. She told that Anirudh came with social reformers, and our village head Devnath who is your chacha by relation also supported in Bonditha’s education. He fumed with anger , but asked to give Bonditha’s address. She gave him and asked what is his plan. He told that “Bonditha is alone in city, I can easily manipulate her and make her mine.”

Kalindi rebuked “You should not touch her before marriage. I am fed up with your lifestyle, can’t bear your affairs anymore. I have already faced a lot with your father and you have also created no less trouble. I am no more ready to bear anything. I am getting old, also I have killed my nephew (Bonditha’s father) with my own hands. This guilt is killing me daily. Whenever I go near Durga maa to pray for your welfare, I am unable to meet her eyes. I only want you to genuinely marry Bonditha, start a respectful life. As told by astrologer, the person who marries Bonditha will be long lived, will attain great respect in society. This is the reason I want her as my bahu at any cost. When she married Anirudh I thought she is gone from our hands. But we got another chance, you should change from heart and should become ideal like Anirudh. I also want to spend my remaining life peacefully with Sumati, Shomik, Rimjhim and you. It is very painful to live like orphans when we have our relatives. Try to understand what I am telling you.”

Chandrachur told “ You don’t worry Thakuma, I will introduce myself as the most honorable person to Bonditha and win her trust and love , definitely marry her.” He thought in mind: “I am so disappointed that I am unable to marry her 3 years ago. Now after seeing her photo in news paper I am mesmerized with her beauty. ARC is such an idiot who has left her when she is in teenage phase, the most beautiful stage and phase in life. I will use this chance and this time I will not let her go away.” Chandrachur also left to Kolkata.

In Kolkata, Anirudh took a house besides Indrani house and observing her silently through window. She started giving tuitions to few students along with her teacher and struggling with new life style. Anirudh also started living with the same amount which Bonditha is earning. He started preparing notes for her, as she will be exhausted after school and tuitions. She realized that he is staying near by and felt delighted. Daily, he used to follow her when she leaves for school and then he used to leave for court. He is purchasing books, sarees and sending her through Indrani, for which latter initially rejected but accepted by seeing his concern and the lifestyle he is leading like Bonditha.

Chandrachur reached Kolkata and took a house near Indrani house, started observing Bonditha through binoculars.

Part 16 FF: Bonditha understood Anirudh, Chandrachur plans

Bonditha is pursuing her secondary school education by staying in Indrani house. She observed that Anirudh is staying in next door, felt happy and used to communicate with letters, bring food and used to keep near door. He is going again on cycle to court, Binoy Kolkata office, struggling just like Bonditha.

The bitter thing he is unable to take is she is staying away from him, observing him silently through window, not showing her face, unable to listen her voice, arguments, etc which is like a breathless feeling. In fact she wished him on his 24th birthday by making greeting card and did not let him properly wish her on her 15 th birthday.

Shomik came to visit her on that day, found that Anirudh is staying next door , confronted both Indrani and Bonditha for it, Indrani replied “Neither Anirudh nor Bonditha have broken the promise given to Sumatiji, he is protecting her like a shadow but your niece neither talked with him, nor taken any help from him. He is only helping her by preparing her notes and passing it through me. Nothing more than that.”

Bonditha asked him to tell this to mother , he nodded and about to offer money to her but she rejected it and told “When I cannot take money from my Birristera Babu, how can I take help from anyone in this world. I don’t want it.”

While coming from their home, he is walking on road and about to get hit by a truck, Anirudh while passing on cycle, immediately left the cycle and rescued him and asked “Are you ok kaka”. Bondita also came out at the same time to go to shop, stopped by listening their words, observing them silently. They didn't see her.

He said “I am fine. (Looking at the cycle) why are you going on cycle when you can have car.”

Anirudh replied “My Bonditha is struggling for every minor expenses, how can I lead a comfortable life when she doesn’t have the same lifestyle “ (Bondita shedded tears and felt bad for his condition)

Shomik asked “You are good at heart, you like Bonditha and can do anything for her, being a zamindar son you are going on cycle. Then why did you break ties of husband and wife relationship. If you have not broke the ties, you both will be living happily and Bonditha will also come with you in car. You can make her educated as per both of your dreams. Why are you both struggling unnecessarily .”

Anirudh “Kaka, I have annulled our marriage for her welfare only. Society has child expectations from a married girl as soon as she entered womanhood. Even my kaka has planned for our suhagraat secretly. Bondita is a raw soil..sumati maa misunderstood me and restricted Bondita that I am an outsider and asked her to stay in limits. My Somnath dada also advised to share room with her and keep her separately. Today she may not understand it, but Within 2 -3 years she will realize it and may feel bad about me. Then how can I face her? Moreover I want to give her all the happiness in her life unconditionally. She has the right to choose her life partner when she is grown. In the next coming years, if she is interested in any person, she can happily marry him. I will not come as obstacle in her life. (He told these with trembled voice)”

(Bondita understood at that moment that if husband and wife should stay in one room and child will be born to them by room sharing. She recollected how sampoorna used to stay with Somnath and soon she have Satish, Saswati in her womb, when she asked him previously about their room sharing how he diverted her. Her heart filled with gratitude that he is such a selfless person and want to give the best life). She silently left from there, felt bad as she is bound to mother’s promise and also happy for knowing his intentions.

Shomik is highly impressed and told “I know my niece very well, if this is your thought I will talk to her, sumati boudi and fix your marriage again. She likes you a lot, in fact she rejected to take money from me and told me that how can I take from you kaka when I cannot take it from my Birristera Babu.”

He felt extremely happy that ATleast she called him birristera Babu in his absence. Shomik asked again to agree for remarriage. Anirudh replied “Kaka, this is the age to study well and attain heights of success. She should not bound to these rituals, blind customs. She has the right to lead her life ,right to take her own decisions in every stage. We should not force any decision on her.”

Shomik : “You are not understanding many things Anirudh Babu! If you leave her hand as husband, everyone will try to hold her hand, look at her with bad sight . Now in krishnanagar, every elder be it our neighbor or any stranger started giving advice to our Sumati boudi about bondita's future.”

Anirudh: “kaka, I won't let any incident to divert her from her ambition. By the way, I am waiting for many days to ask you about your peshi, but situations have made me to treat like an enemy by Sumati maa, you and Rimjhim kaki. Kalindi Thakuma told that you found her in pilgrimage, why did you bring her from there as you know that I am suspecting her in the death of Your brother. “

Shomik: I saw her in pathetic condition in Gaya piligrimage, brought her to home and treated her. She recovered now and being helpful and strong support in all matters. In fact, she is defending sumati boudi infront of outsiders when they are trying to defame Bondita.

Anirudh: so is there nothing to suspect about her.

Shomik: No. She is honestly willing to spend her rest of life with us.

Anirudh: what about her grandson Chandrachur?

Shomik: so far I haven't met him, but he used to write her letters from Hooghly.

Anirudh: can you give me his address

Shomik: why are you asking his address. Anirudh babu! There is nothing to suspect. In fact I am feeling that we got our old Peshi back, who used to take care in our childhood like a mother.

Anirudh: kaka, my intention is not to hurt you or any innocent person. But to clear my doubts, I am asking. Please give me his address. I promise that I will not create any trouble to anyone.

Shomik agreed and gave the address as he used to read letters to kalindi, took leave. He asked Bondita through letter to draw the sketch of the old man whom she met before their marriage. She has done it and sent him, he immediately met police officer and asked him to enquire about chandrachur as 2 innocent people (Bhairavi and surender chatterjee) lost their lives. (During their marriage).

Bondita thought that her belief on her birristera babu has not gone in vain, he is always the best personality.

Meanwhile, Chandrachur has started writing love letters to Bondita and posting it to Indrani teacher house, to her school describing her beauty in abusive way which trembled her recollected the incident before leaving to Calcutta with Indrani.

While packing her suitcase, Sumati and kalindi had given a lecture about how girls should stay in limits, not to talk much and do friendship with boys. She strictly warned her that if she goes against her rules, she (Sumati) will bring her back. Bondita is about to argue but sumati made her shut the mouth that she is not her birristera babu to answer each and every tark, has to follow the rules made for girls. Bondita nodded. FB ends.

She had tore it and felt ashamed to tell the matter to anyone. He is kept on sending it and observing her reaction. He is disgusted that she is tearing his letters and throwing flowers in dustbin. He decided to disturb her a lot.

He started making phone calls to school, talk to her with changed voice and kept on continuously calling her. Even principal blamed her for this reason and she told that there are no one who will make phone calls.

At one night he decided to meet her in dark. He disguised with beard, covered his face came to Indrani house and took away fuse. Bondita observed that power is there in Anirudh's house and other houses as well, decided to check the fuse as taught by her shiskahak babu. Chandrachur observed her coming out, came from behind, closed her mouth and asked 'why are you avoiding my letters, throwing flowers in dustbin. I am observing your reaction daily. You know I love you a lot, I want to be with you every minute. You are such a beautiful woman I have ever seen. I will marry you and take care of you like a queen. I am not like idiotic ARC to leave you. Think of my proposal. No need to think about it, I have no scarcity with me. Happily agree to marry me, I will show you the real happiness and pleasure"

Initially she is shocked, trying her best to free herself but his grip is becoming tight and about to move his hand to sensitive body parts, she kicked him with her foot as soon as she realised his nasty actions, took a stone near by and hit him badly on his 2 legs. He screamed with his original voice. Anirudh is studying books in his house and Indrani who is preparing notes in candle light heard the scream , came out and Bondita has thrown the pepper powder which she always kept tied to her saree pallu. Anirudh climbed the wall and about to catch him, he hardly ran and jumped the back wall and escaped.

They came back and asked what happened. She came out of shock and embraced him and bursted into tears for couple of minutes. He consoled her, Indrani went inside and brought water for her. She drank it and later explained this love letters fiasco, continuous telephone calls to school and the incident happened few minutes ago. He carressed her hair, took her hand into his and silently consoled her. Indrani asked 'Why didn't you inform me before.'

Bondita kept silent. He asked Indrani to permit him to talk to her for a while and later she will come into house. She agreed for it and left.

He took her to stair case , made her sit there. After a while, he started his conversation :

Anirudh: Are you willing to share your pain with me.

She nodded.

He asked her to tell everything in detail. She told how abused way he had written letters, sending flowers, making phone calls.

Anirudh: Are the letters still with you

Bondita: No, I have tore it. (Suddenly something flashed, told with excitement to Anirudh) He is observing that I am tearing all his letters and throwing flowers in dustbin.

Anirudh: That means he is observing you very closely. He is staying in proximity around us.

Bondita also realised it and nodded.

Later he explained Bondita that these things are not to be hidden, you should discuss your problem with anyone else these kind of eve teasers or cheaters will take advantage of girls.

She is completely devastated and told " I didn't understand how to react. With much difficult, I got my mother permission to study here. She also strictly warned me to stay in my limits. Infact I am silently studying, not even talking much like before with anyone, but still this kind of problem has come before me."

Anirudh felt sad for sumati giving these kind of advices to Bondita. " Bondita! Do you trust in my words."

She nodded.

He continued "Then listen to me carefully. This is not girls mistake that boys are teasing her and are at her back. It is the mistake of boys who were not taught values from childhood. You should not feel ashamed and belittle yourself inside. Why are you feeling guilty and for what reason. Tell me. If these kind of situations occur, girls or women should not silently bear the torture, they should raise voice, show courage and teach eve teasers a lesson. Girls should make eve teasers realise their mistake. You came here to study well and show the path to many girls in society. Don't you feel that you are unnecessarily making yourself inferior. If this goes on, how can you set an example to others. Just remember one thing: Mann ka haar hi haar, aur mann ka Jeet hi jeet. Have you made my words also as outsider just like you made me (Mere saath saath mere sikhaya baaton ko bhi paraya kardiya Bondita tum ne).'

He started by turning aside.

At that moment, she realised how foolishly she came into her mother's words (who herself is bound to superstitious beliefs, how she changed herself after their marriage annulment and started hating Anirudh) and avoiding her birristera babu, analyzed the difference of words in between her mother and her birristera babu. She recollected how he used to guide her during exams, stay awake with her and how she intentionally avoided him and feeling guilty for purposefully avoiding his help and guidance.

She came and touched his feet and broken into tears. He lifted her up. She apologized him and hold his hand and told "From today onwards I will not leave my God's hand at any cost or for any reason. I will follow your every suggestion as a command. We both are krishna and Arjuna. After I have separated from you, everything has become so dark for me and I felt so depressed."

Anirudh : Even I am happy that I got my friend & student back. You can't even imagine how sad I am feeling in my heart when we communicated only through letters. I felt that you also started hating me for annulling our marriage. If we don't have name for our relationship, does that mean that out relationship has no meaning.

Bondita recollected his words with Shomik and told that from now onwards we are best friends. I will call you by the name sakha babu. Anirudh also told by holding her hands that you are my best sakhi.

Indrani came few minutes before and felt happy that they have patched up again.she felt that if every man thinking is like ARC, then no woman in this world will suffer. She prayed to God that they both should stay together forever and ever, silently left from there.

After a while, Anirudh asked ' Can you find anything strange from his letters or any clue about him?'

She thought for a while and said no. He assured her that he will look into this matter and give the letters to him if she receive it any further. She agreed and left. On that night, she realised the difference of touch between the anonymous person and Anirudh. She felt much comfortable, solace in his arms, can give up all the pressure to him and feel relaxed. From many days, as her age is increasing, she is observing that how eve teasers, her classmates giving evil look, evil smiles at her while going and coming. It is due to her conserved nature and not giving lenience , nobody took advantage. But from these many days, her sakha babu never touched her creepily, he always comforted her, slowly her mind is realising something and soon she fell into sleep. She slept peacefully after many nights.

Chandrachur visited doctor and was told that it is fracture in both legs and will take more weeks to recover. His ego is deeply hurt as Bondita had hurt him very badly and wanted to seek revenge.

The next day he went to near by police station, explained about the attack on Bondita, tried to gather information about eve teasers and enquired in hospitals that if any person who had injury of 2 legs have visited. Chandrachur managed to remove his name in hospital records by giving bribe. Inspector Gagan is a good friend of Anirudh who have also previously helped by giving details about Brijwasi, now also gave some details of eve teasers. He collected their hand written papers and went home. He is surprised to see Bondita waiting for him outside the door and asked about it.

She told that, 'she took permission from Indrani teacher to let her go to her sakha babu house and study for while and come back. Teacherji also happily permitted me.' Anirudh is so delighted to see her back. He has shown if any of these hand writings match with the writings of the letters she received. She said no and later started studying , he is helping her in clearing doubts. After 4 hours at 10 pm , she left. Indrani is also waiting for her in corridor. When Bondita went inside, he thanked her for sending his friend and trusting him. She told : "who else can take care of Bondita more than you Anirudh." He folded hands happily and left.

In Krishnanagar, Shomik also didn't say anything to sumati, kalindi or Rimjhim about Anirudh staying in next house to Bondita. He only telling that Bondita is doing well, no regrets for keeping her in city and allowing her to study. All believed his words.

After few days, Anirudh's friend Inspector Gagan had come to visit him, at that time Bondita is alone. She told him that Anirudh is about to come. He felt Bondita like his sister who is dead in same age in her saural unable to bear their torture. They both introduced themselves to each other and he gave his phone number to Bondita,basked her to make call whenever she has any necessity. She kept his number safely . He wished her good luck, asked her to study well and bring good laws for the welfare of women in society. She happily nodded.

Just then Anirudh came and he is about to introduce Bondita to Gagan, but latter introduced that she is not only your friend but also my sister. The three laughed and Gagan wants to talk to him privately.

But Anirudh thought for a while, told that my friend and your sister is growing, soon she will join law course, so no secrets from her.

Gagan smiled and told that chandrachur is not staying in Hooghly address and handed over the letters. He and his grandmother Kalindi have not stayed in any pilgrimages except Gaya. That too she went only few days before Shomik Das has planned to go to Gaya. Bondita is surprised to listen Kalindi and Shomik names through Gagan and is looking on. At that moment, letters are about to fall by wind, Bondita took it and her glimpse fallen on the handwriting. She is shocked to see it.

She immediately shouted ' Sakha babu! This letter has the same handwriting who has written letters to me.' Anirudh is shocked and came near her and asked 'Are you sure Bondita' to which Bondita firmly said 'Yes, it is the same hand writing'

Gagan concluded 'So, the anonymous person who is writing letters to Bondita is the grandson of kalindi, who killed bondita's father, tried to marry her in old man's disguise. He also killed surender chatterjee and Bhairavi.'

Bondita is hell shocked and became unconscious. Anirudh came to her rescue, splashed water drops and made her to drink water. He asked 'Are you ok'. She nodded and asked 'what Gagan dada is telling?'

They looked each other and Anirudh started explaining: " Listen to me carefully Bondita! After our marriage you are suffering with bed wetting problem Then I contacted neurologist Dr. Rabindra with the help of Somnath dada. He studied your case and concluded that it is not only nightmare but the real incident that you have seen in semi conscious state. This is the reason you are unable to forget it. Later when I met your Shomik kaka during oushtmangla rasam , I discussed about his peshi and he gave me the information that his peshi i.e. kalindi Thakuma and your father Yogendra baba has rift few years ago. He gave confession against her son in panchayat because her son spoiled the life of lower caste woman and as per verdict, he is forced to marry her. She Later died giving birth to a son named Chandrachur. Kalindiji son also spoiled a British woman life where your father again confessed against him. Due to this her son is mercilessly killed by British officers and panchayat also made them to leave Krishnanagar for 10 years. At that time chandrachur age is around 12 years.

Later I met kalindi Thakuma step daughter in Krishnanagar village when we came for your treatment, she told that kalindi, her son and grandson are harmful and seek revenge whoever tried to harm them.

When your marriage is fixed with old man, his name is also Chandrachur and kalindi named woman is there with him. Like his father he had also cheated a girl named Bhairavi and killed my mentor surender chatterjee as he tried to stop your marriage.

He purposefully fell into river but so far police are unable to find any corpse. I have enquired from many people, but unfortunately I cannot find any solid proof evidence against them.

As told by Kalindi Thakuma, they didn't go for any pilgrimages and chandrachur is also not working under any British officers in Hooghly.

Another thing is your father didn't say anything about his peshi to Sumati maa. So she is blindly believing her and considering me as her enemy. This Is the reason I am scared to leave you in Krishnanagar alone. So I desparately kept silent while sumati maa, Rimjhim kaki and Thakuma are keeping conditions. Else I can never come into their words.'

Bondita is weeping and Anirudh is consoling her. Gagan assured that he will enquire about Chandrachur whereabouts in nearby places and took leave.

For next 3 -4 days she suffered with high temperature and kept on dreaming about her father. Anirudh is near her bed from last 4 days. She anxiously woke up from sleep and worried about her mother's safety. He told that 'I am regularly enquiring about her and she is quite fine. Bondita! Still there are no acute evidences against them. If they are really guilty we shall not spare them. You have to be strong, gain courage and ignite the fire in yourself of becoming barrister. Your passion should become more strong towards it. Once you become barrister babu Bondita, you will fight against all injustices in society.'

Bondita promised that she will become strong and fight against all injustices. She will not spare any convicts.

Later she is recovered, gave her XI std board exams and passed with best marks.

Part 17: Sumati strict parenting, Bonditha realizing her feelings

Bonditha started preparing for her next academics and law entrance exam in holidays. Shomik came to take her to village, but Anirudh spoke with him personally about Kalindi and chandrachur plotting against them and especially Bondita. He advised to be careful if possible shift to city, but Shomik interrupted and told that Krishnanagar people are dependent on their medicines and so they can't leave their place, but he will take police help. Anirudh agreed and dropped them in station by telling many precautions to her, Shomik left to Krishnanagar with Bondita, assured of her safety to Anirudh.

Gagan got information about a person who came injured and took treatment privately with the help of an ayurvedic doctor. He went along with Anirudh and met him, confirmed that the person might be Chandrachur. Anirudh also found that chandrachur used to stay in back Street of Indrani house, but no one are unable to find out how exactly he looks like. Because he tricked house owners with a beard and as dumb person and was missing on the day since he abused Bondita in dark.

Chandrachur on the other hand, started staying in another house far to the city, thought initially to inform about his condition to Kalindi but later took back because she will reprimand him badly.

Bondita reached Krishnanagar village and all the family members are waiting for her. When she reached home late at night and embraced sumati, Kalindi realised from her back that she got menses and grabbed her from her mother's embrace, shouted on her that you got menses, came here from city alone and touching everyone.

Bondita asked 'What is the big deal in it. This is a regular problem. I will immediately take bath and change dress. Maa, please arrange food for me. I am so hungry.'

Kalindi rebuked ' What is this sumati! Have you not taught how to behave during periods time . Ok, I will teach her now.'

She dragged Bondita to dark room on the up stairs, kept inside and asked her to stay till her periods are completed.

Bondita is shouting 'Thakuma, what is this? I came here by doing long journey, want to take bath. Please allow me inside. I will be clean and take good care of hygiene. Please allow me.'

Thakuma sternly told: ' No way, you are not supposed to come inside until you finish your menses. You should not take bath, have food here only and use the pot in water kept inside.'

Bondita is surprised and asked what if I have to use washroom. She asked to use the pit there

She almost felt nausea, and everybody are leaving. She called sumati again to let her come out , but sumati told that 'we all used to stay here during this time. You should also get habituated. I will bring food to you.'

Bondita requested 'Maa, don't do this. It is suffocating here. I can't have food here because here only I have to use washroom. This is disgusting maa. Please allow me to come into home.'

Sumati with tears 'dont worry Bondita, slowly you will also get habituated here. It is sin to roam around during periods.'

Shomik tried to interrupt but Kalindi asked : "Today you will bring her inside because it is her mayka. What will you do when she got married and if she is in sasural? Will you go and convince them? Being a man, why are you interfering in ladies matter. Have some shame and maintain your dignity. Rimjhim! Explain to your husband."

Rimjhim pulled him aside and strictly asked him not to interfere in ladies matter.

Bondita didn't take any food that day and kept on remembering Anirudh, how he taught to not let anyone do injustice to you she took a decision.

Anirudh called late at night, initially sumati lifted the call so he disconnected. Later Shomik lifted and told that she is sleeping and assured that everything is fine. But still Anirudh is feeling some pain inside and thought that may be he is Missing her.

Next day early morning, Anirudh thought to leave to Krishnanagar for Bondita but Somnath, sampoorna and kids came to his house. He is surprised and asked 'How did you come unexpectedly?' Somnath replied that their children need to get vaccine for some diseases else it will be a problem in future and Trilochan assigned him (Anirudh) to finish some paper work regarding lands in next 3 days, else it will be a problem. He reluctantly agreed.

sampoorna asked ‘where is Bondita, her house is locked.’ Anirudh replied that she left to Krishnanagar and Indrani also went to take classes for nearby village children.

On the other side, sumati went to meet Bondita, she is surprised to see the door is broken. Bondita just came from stairs by taking bath outside with changed clothes and fresh look.

Sumati worried for daughter and asked 'What did you do. Why did you go out, Bondita?'

Kalindi also came and shouted, about to raise hand. But Bondita stopped her in middle, firmly told " Thakuma, I didn't do any mistake, so I will not let anyone raise hand on me without my mistake. I won't let anyone do injustice to me, anyone dominate and compress me. I will respect you as you are elder and you should also keep your respect infront of me. Menses is not any disease. In these days, women should maintain clean hygiene. So I have taken bath. There is nothing wrong in it. Don't make unnecessary drama."

Kalindi is dumbstruck for her rebellious nature. Even sumati tried to shout but she stopped sumati by showing her hand and told:

" This is not correct maa! I haven't told anything wrong. Menses is not any disease and women are not supposed to stay in dark rooms or in forests. I will respect all the elders, but at the same time elders should also keep their respect. Else respect will only come for namesake from me but not from my heart. Please remember it"

Kalindi found a new shade in Bondita, worried that how will Chandrachur can live with this jungli billi. Looks like she will even control her husband. Suddenly she got a thought and confronted Shomik " what is this Shomik. You told that we need not regret for allowing her to study in city. But see this girl. She turned into mannerless, shameless girl. Have you lied to us or haven't you seen her rebellious nature?"

Although worried, Shomik replied "Peshi, we all are thinking too much. Even she is also a human being, who came from distant place to see us. You have shouted on her like as if she is a slave. We have this big house and 2 bed rooms have washrooms attached. We could have spoken with her softly and asked her to use either of the rooms. When her problem is solved we can clean up everything with our servant. If we speak lovingly, she will also speak with love. Else children will rebuke one day and will be out of hands."

Sumati tried to apologise on bondita's behalf to kalindi.Latter whispered in sumati ears to control her immediately else she will be thrown away once again by her sasural in future, already she has become a laughing stock in our village and Tulsipur. If this continues she will not get good alliances. Tapur life will also be affected because of Bondita.

Sumati immediately reprimanded her badly: "If you don't go inside dark room, I will consider that you don't care for my words, have no respect on me. I can't live anymore by seeing your impulsive nature."

Still Bondita argued that not to reprimand or blackmail her for which there is no mistake from her side. But her mother took a knife from house and warned to harm herself for going against traditions.

Bondita is scared that her mother will harm herself and silently went inside. She endured hunger, abdominal pain but didn't take food. Tapur tried to help her, but Bondita refused. Kalindi strictly told not to melt, else she won’t listen to you. Later Tapur asked not to come to village till she become Barrister. In these 3 days, Anirudh is getting too restless for her. After 3 days, she came out , took bath but didn't have food from last 4days.

She packed her bags, took blessings from her mother, Thakuma, kaka, kaki and embraced Tapur. Sumati asked her to stay for few more days , as she didn't have food since you came. Bondita told by not looking into her face that "I will not die if I stay hungry. I have important classes and prepare for next academics. I will come later."

Sumati by carressing her head told "I spoke harshly for your welfare. Only with your thinking, society will not change easily. You should be obedient and listen to elders, follow all traditions."

Kalindi interrupted again "Why are you giving explanation to her Sumati! Women life is not easy. Pain and tears are lifelong companions for her. Parents should always be strict with their children else they will go out of hands.

Bondita! You will understand this when you become mother in future."

Thinking that if Sumati behaves harshly there Chandrachur will impress with his soft nature and Bonditha will fall for him, I will get them married soon.

Bondita replied " I don't agree with you Thakuma. Till few days before I felt that my mother's embrace will be solution to all my problems. But I didn't expect that she can turn into stone hearted for the sake of superstitious beliefs.

Women are always special, God has given special power to give life to the world. when God has not ill treated women, why we being women are ill treating ourselves. When we our selves don't believe in our power, how can men respect us . Traditions are made for healthy life style, not to give pain to anyone. It is because of ignorance we are not understanding what are proper traditions and what are superstitious beliefs. Anyway, you will think that I am arguing with you. I will take leave."

Her mother embraced her but she didn't respond, which sumati got disappointed . She came onto road.

As Kalindi indirectly spread news in Krishnanagar that Bondita has menses despite staying in dark room came roaming in village, she used ladies bathroom. Mob gathered at her back throwing tantrums and gossiping about her. She promised to herself that through her education one day she will make them realize their mistake.

Shomik eagerly went outside and made call to Anirudh and told him everything about her condition to Anirudh, to which latter rebuked with choked voice that how can sumati maa behave mercilessly to Bondita, she had went with much expectations from here. He found the train timings and left to station.

When train is arriving Calcutta, Bondita is getting unconscious for not having food. She fainted when reached station and mob gathered near her compartment. Anirudh noticed it, came to her rescue, lifted her and took her to near by hospital.

Bonditha is given saline and doctor scolded Anirudh for not giving proper food, told that complete fasting is not a method to be slim, the girl is already thin, she should be given healthy food. She slowly gained conscious, Saw Anirudh who is holding her hand with tears in his eyes. She felt delighted to see him and held her head on his shoulders and he comforted her.

After sometime, he took her to his house, she is delighted to see Somnath, sampoorna and kids, happily embraced sampoorna and Bondita ate food happily made by her sister from Anirudh's hands.

When she is sleeping peacefully in his house, Anirudh is extremely happy and shedding tears to see her back. He felt surprised for his restlessness in these few days for not seeing her and when his introspect is about to give a name for this feeling, he suddenly compressed it and went to somnath to talk to him. Much to his surprise, Somnath also acknowledged that how he became impatient in hospital when Bondita is unconscious, reminded him that she is only his responsibility. Anirudh kept silent and went to sleep.

Somnath felt that if we try to bring you both closer, you will run away from her. When everyone try to separate you both, then you both will come more closer .

As Bondita recovered and talking happily with sampoorna, latter explained how Anirudh felt lonely despite we being with him. He became desparate by seeing you unconscious in train .

Bondita asked sampoorna with hesitation about what is husband and wife relationship. Why did Anirudh make her away from him .

Sampoorna explained that "Bondita, husband and wife are the best friends throughout their life. When children are growing parents will be getting old and cannot take care of them like they used to do in young age. Every parent wish to leave the world before their child. So to fulfill the vaccum, parents get children married so that they both take care of each other like a parent, a friend, siblings, like lovers and loves each other unconditionally. (Bondita heartbeat skipped thinking of Anirudh and cannot stop herself from blushing in heart). They shouldn't have any secrets from each other and share each other pain, happiness,all feelings.

Anirudh felt that you may have feelings for other person when you come into teenage (Kishorawashta) and he may become obstacle for you . He want you to choose your life partner without any hesitations, confusion and pressure. So when you decided to get marry, take wise decision."

Bondita nodded looking at Anirudh who is playing in distance with kids. Sampoorna teased her for blushing and hiding face with hands.

She again expressed her doubt "with these kind of feelings, can I achieve my ambition?"

Sampoorna asked "Will Anirudh become obstacle in reaching your goal or will he become inspiration to reach your goal?"

Bondita replied "He is my Krishna who always show me the right path. He will always make a path to reach my goal."

Sampoorna smiled and felt that they will definitely unite one day. After 2 days Somnath, sampoorna left with kids to Tulsipur.

Bondita silently started preparing for law entrance and XII std subjects. Anirudh asked her to tell whats going on in her mind. Are you scared of sumati maa rigid behaviour and villagers taunts.

She replied that : "My stubbornness is increased and I want to study more and show them that their thinking is narrow minded. I want to prove my worth to everyone." He praised her "Bravo Bonditha”

On the other side, chandrachur is hatching a plan to impress Sumati and Bonditha at a time. He targeted Shomik and trapped him in an issue that due to his medicines patient got severe problem, later chandrachur saved the patient and apologized on shomik's behalf and impressed him. He introduced as Kalindi's grandson and spoke sensitively. Later came to Krishnanagar house impressed everyone with his decent behaviour and pretended himself as the most genuine person who respect women. He suggested Shomik that he will expand their medicines in Calcutta. Kalindi suggested to take Bondita help as she is intelligent in handling accounts. He agreed with a cunning smile.